The Reading Clinic

Focusing on your ability and not your disability.

Unmasking Dyslexia

• One out of every five individuals is faced with a reading problem.
• Dyslexia affects all genders, races and socioeconomic groups.
• 75% of children in third grade who are poor readers will be poor readers in high school.
• Dyslexia is a specific learning disability.
• Letter reversals are not the main warning sign of dyslexia.
• Dyslexia does not result from a vision problem.

What Is Dyslexia?

The International Dyslexia Association says dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.

Warning signs:

• Difficulty reading aloud
• Difficulty spelling words
• Difficulty with following directions
• Difficulty with memorization of math facts
• Difficulty with memorization of alphabet
• Difficulty recognizing the sounds that letters make
• Reluctance to read
• Poor self-esteem
• Poor handwriting
• Letter or number reversals

What do I do if I suspect dyslexia?

If you suspect that you or your child might have a problem with reading, then get an evaluation by a professional that specializes in the identification of dyslexia. There is not a single test that will identify this specific type of reading problem. The person will need to be tested in the areas of decoding words, encoding words, reading comprehension, phonemic awareness and achievement. The most important thing is, DO NOT WAIT. Research has proven that the sooner we find dyslexia and begin intervention, the better the success.

What if I find out I have dyslexia?

Once dyslexia has been identified, the most important step is to find a structured, multisensory language program that is designed to teach an individual with dyslexia. For example, a program that is based on the Orton-Gillingham approach would be a great choice. We, at Rush Rehab Center offer this program and are available to answer your questions and evaluate, and treat individuals with reading problems characteristic of dyslexia.